Australia’s North West set for major tourism developments

Australia’s North West is poised for major developments as it works towards its 10-year Destination Management Plan.

 

The plan outlines four key priority projects: investment in experiential accommodation, the expansion of short-stay accommodation in Broome, development of Aboriginal tourism experiences and infrastructure upgrades at East Kimberley Regional Airport.

 

In Broome, the second stage of the Walmanyjun Cable Beach foreshore redevelopment is underway, supported by an additional $9 million in government funding.

 

Scheduled for completion in mid-2026, the project will transform the area into a premier waterfront tourism attraction, featuring a promenade, amphitheatre, activation spaces and a waterpark.

 

In the eastern Kimberley region, Best Western Hotels will take over management of Cambridge Hotel Kununurra this month, with extensive refurbishments including upgraded rooms, a wellness centre and a pool bar, all slated for completion by the end of 2026.

 

Additionally, Abercrombie & Kent is set to open its first Asia-Pacific wilderness lodge in 2027, located in the Kimberley’s Unesco-listed Purnululu National Park.

 

Developed in partnership with the Bilingjul Aboriginal Corporation, Purnululu Eco Lodge will feature 16 rooms, including the Geoffrey Kent Villa.

 

The property will have a strong focus on Aboriginal culture and sustainability, operating entirely on solar power and providing guests with direct access to the Bungle Bungle Ranges.

 

In the western Kimberley region, new developments are also on the horizon. Expressions of interest have opened for eco-accommodation projects at Windjana Gorge, Tunnel Creek and Lennard Gorge.

 

The initiatives will be backed by Tourism Western Australia and the Bunuba Dawangarri Aboriginal Corporation and present “a rare opportunity to develop sustainable tourism in some of the region’s most culturally significant destinations”.

 

Bill Tatchell, chief executive of Australia’s North West Tourism, said: “The Kimberley is on the cusp of a transformative chapter, with major developments elevating the region’s appeal to international luxury travellers. The new Abercrombie & Kent wilderness lodge in Purnululu, the Walmanyjun Cable Beach foreshore redevelopment and the launch of the Best Western Cambridge Hotel in Kununurra are all signals of growing confidence and investment in our remote, experience-rich destination.

 

“These projects not only enhance the standard of accommodation and public amenity, but also provide deeper access to the culture, landscapes and stories that define this extraordinary part of the world.”

 

Image: Cable Beach